To dash: This alternative word for run suggests nimble, smooth and precise movement.For example: The thief tore down the side street, knocking a crate of fresh fruit from a startled merchant’s arms as he passed. To tear down/along: This carries a sense of violence or destructive movement (because we also use it to mean ‘to demolish’).For example: At the first firecracker’s bang, the dogs bolted, Tess careening into the sliding door with a loud whimper. To bolt: This synonym for ‘run’ has connotations of fear (we typically speak of a frightened horse or other animal as ‘bolting’).Here are alternatives for the verb ‘to run’: ‘He ran for the departing train’ is another use of an adequate but not particularly descriptive verb. For example: Late for class, she hurries, forgetting behind the paper she needs to hand in today. To hurry: You can also use words that describe general manner of movement, like this.For example: He crept towards the display case, his eyes widening at the dazzling gold and rubies that sparkled and blinded. To creep:Use for fearful or cautious movement.For example: She strode over the plain, sword aloft, deflecting incoming arrows as easily as summer gnats. To stride:Use for purposeful or confident walking.Example: I stumbled on in the dark undergrowth, hoping to see the town’s lights winking ahead soon. To stumble: A great alternative to walking, for uneven terrain, injury, or a clumsy character.It means ‘to walk in a slow or relaxed manner.’ Example: She sauntered over to our cafeteria table, casually tossing her books onto one of the grimy seats. To saunter:Use to describe a character who is laid back or relaxed.‘She walked over’ is perfectly adequate to describe a character approaching. Explore these alternatives: Stronger verbs for walking Verbs that describe movementĬommon words that describe the ways your characters move (such as ‘run’, ‘sit’ and ‘walk’) have many vibrant alternatives. Use this list of descriptive verbs to create stronger mood, atmosphere, and characterization: 1.

Yet writers say this because there are often more descriptive verbs you could use instead of a duller verb-plus-adverb. Sayings such as ‘the road to hell is paved with adverbs’ scare many aspiring authors off using adverbs to describe characters’ actions.

Other words for running